Singtel ramps up its maritime digital services by integrating the innovative satellite technology from Starlink. This breakthrough aims to inspire ship operators into adopting digital solutions such as AI, 5G, edge computing, and cloud-based technologies for improved operational efficiency and safety measures. Starlink, a first-of-its-kind low Earth orbit broadband service included in Singtel’s comprehensive iSHIP offerings, offers enhanced connectivity and reduced latency.
BT’s recent talks with SpaceX to leverage Starlink’s LEO satellite fleet for remote connectivity in the UK has sparked curiosity, especially given BT’s current partnership with OneWeb, Starlink’s competition. It’s speculated that Starlink’s innovative direct-to-device capabilities, which promise unblemished global coverage without a need for a terminal, could be the allure.
Iridium, taking the telecommunications industry by storm, aims to connect satellites directly to devices such as smartphones and automobiles through their Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite infrastructure tightly woven on 5G. The key feature here is connecting ordinary smartphones straight to satellite connectivity.
China finished building the first launchpad at its Wenchang spaceport for the Long March 8 rocket. OmniOn Power’s Intelligent Distribution Bay addresses the growing challenges in the telecom and data center industry by providing real-time monitoring. Infobip launched AI Hub, an advanced upgrade integrating analytics, AI, and gen AI features to facilitate seamless end-to-end conversational experiences. CallTower joined the International Trade Council, reinforcing its dedication to excellence in Cloud Communications. The US government granted $50 million to Dish for the Open RAN Center for Integration & Deployment (ORCID), aimed at enhancing the global Open RAN ecosystem.
In a strategic move aimed at bolstering Norway’s space capabilities, Telenor Norway has successfully concluded the sale of its satellite business to Space Norway for a staggering NOK 2.36 billion ($228 million). The transaction, which received approval from the Norwegian Parliament just before Christmas, marks a significant shift in ownership of Telenor Satellite, a leading European provider of satellite TV broadcast and VSAT data communications services for maritime and land-based sectors.
In a strategic move to gain a foothold in India’s expanding telecommunications market, Elon Musk’s satellite communications constellation, Starlink, is reportedly considering a stake in Vodafone Idea (Vi). As of 2024, Starlink boasts a constellation of over 5,500 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, providing commercial services in more than 60 countries to approximately 1.5 million subscribers.
In a groundbreaking development, Project Kuiper has revealed the successful testing of advanced optical communications payloads on its prototype satellites, KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2. The optical inter-satellite link (OISL) capabilities, previously kept confidential, demonstrated the ability to maintain 100 Gbps links over a distance of nearly 621 miles during testing in October.
The FCC recently reiterated its denial of Starlink’s bid to gain nearly $900M in support from the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund program. Despite Starlink’s impressive technology, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel questioned the wisdom in subsidizing the still evolving tech until 2032. Starlink had initially received the lofty sum in a 2020 auction but was later deemed inadequate in verifying its capabilities.
Imagine a search and rescue mission in remote rural areas, being empowered by the wings of a drone, beaming down 5G connectivity. This very scene is unfolding in Warwickshire, UK, thanks to Virgin Media O2’s innovative approach. The drone, armed with a petite mobile base station, creates a nimble communication network, offering vital real-time data to rescuers.
ITU announced a 6G framework, advancing global standards with a focus on spectrum bands, capabilities, and use cases. Eutelsat OneWeb and Imperial College are teaming up to transform space weather monitoring. Google launched Gemini AI model with flexibility to process diverse data types. SoftBank acquires 51% of Cubic Telecom, forming a strategic partnership for software-defined connected vehicles.
